£100,000 Boost For Cycling Proficiency Scheme In NI Schools

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced a £100,000 investment to continue the Cycling Proficiency Scheme in Northern Ireland schools for the current academic year. The funding will enable approximately 6,000 children to participate in the programme during the upcoming school term.

"The Cycling Proficiency Scheme provides essential skills for our young people to cycle safely and with confidence and is a valuable tool to help prepare young people for making good road safety decisions while cycling," said Minister Kimmins. "In addition, cycling is a great way to travel actively and contributes to improving health and well-being." The Minister highlighted the importance of early education in safe cycling practices. "I believe that children should learn of its many benefits and how to cycle safely from an early age. It teaches them how to carry out various manoeuvres properly, the importance of looking and listening while out cycling, how to fit and adjust their helmet and carry out safety checks on their bicycle."

The initiative targets children in Primary Years 6 and 7. In 2024, nearly 4,000 pupils received training. "I am pleased to be able to commit to the scheme this year and have now written to all schools across the north. I would encourage them to take up the invitation and apply to take part in the scheme as soon as possible to allow it to be delivered this academic year," Minister Kimmins added.

The Department for Infrastructure is contacting schools to invite them to participate in the scheme.

Teachers deliver the training, with the Department providing resources, instructor training, and support.